During a four-day unofficial trip to the US, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi aligned with some of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s foreign policy positions but sharply criticized his handling of China. Speaking at the National Press Club, Gandhi emphasized the importance of India’s relations with the US, Pakistan, and other global players.
Gandhi expressed support for PM Modi’s stance on Pakistan, stating that terrorism remains a key obstacle to dialogue between the two nations. “We won’t accept Pakistan’s terror activities,” he said, affirming that terror, not Kashmir, was the primary roadblock to peace.
He pointed out that the India-US relationship enjoys bipartisan support in both countries and that there has been no significant shift in the approach under Modi. Gandhi emphasized that the relationship would likely continue on its current trajectory, regardless of political leadership.
On the subject of democracy, Gandhi firmly stated that India’s democratic issues should remain internal. He called India’s democracy a global asset but rejected any foreign intervention in the nation’s internal affairs, including from the US.
Touching upon the Middle East, Gandhi condemned the violence in Israel, criticizing both sides for escalating the conflict. He expressed particular concern for the loss of innocent civilian lives, arguing that the ongoing violence was damaging Israel more than helping.
The strongest criticism was reserved for PM Modi’s handling of China. Gandhi claimed that Chinese troops had taken control of over 4,000 square kilometers of Indian territory in Ladakh, calling it a “disaster” and stating that Modi’s strategy was far from effective.
“How would America react if a neighbor occupied such vast territory? No president would get away with that,” Gandhi remarked, questioning Modi’s approach to China.
On Bangladesh, Gandhi acknowledged concerns about extremist elements but remained hopeful for stabilization. He called on both the Bangladeshi and Indian governments to work together to resolve the ongoing violence in the region.
Throughout his visit, Gandhi engaged with US lawmakers, discussing concerns about Bangladesh and reaffirming India’s commitment to peaceful relations in the region.
The trip highlighted Rahul Gandhi’s growing role in international diplomacy, as he continues to both align with and challenge PM Modi’s foreign policy stances.